TTC Brother vs. HMX Hibiscus
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the HMX Hibiscus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can greatly influence your typing experience, and two contenders that stand out for their distinct characteristics are the TTC Brother and the HMX Hibiscus. The Brother, a clicky switch, weighs in with a lightweight actuation force of just 37g, delivering a tactile feedback that is both pronounced and pleasurable, complemented by its signature crunchy sound that makes each keystroke a joyous experience for clicky switch enthusiasts. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus switch offers an ultra-smooth, linear experience, catering to those who prioritize seamless key presses over tactile feedback. With a sound profile that is clacky and poppy, the Hibiscus delivers a unique auditory experience while ensuring effortless actuation. While the Brother is perfect for users who relish the tactile and auditory feedback of a clicky switch, the Hibiscus is ideal for those seeking a fluid typing experience without the distraction of excess noise. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the HMX Hibiscus, distinct differences become apparent, particularly regarding the top housing. The Brother utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by its stiffness, leading to a sharper and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate is also advantageous for RGB lighting, allowing it to shine through while enhancing aesthetic appeal. In contrast, the Hibiscus employs a nylon top housing, which is known for its softer and more absorbent properties. This material generates a deeper, fuller sound profile, providing a rounder auditory experience. Thus, while both switches are designed for optimal performance, their sound characteristics diverge significantly due to the choice of top housing material.
However, both the TTC Brother and HMX Hibiscus feature the same bottom housing material: nylon. This consistency means that both switches share a similar foundation when it comes to sound and feel during typing. The nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, effectively absorbing sound and resulting in a duller tone during the bottom-out stage of the keypress. Since both switches rely on nylon for their bottom housing, users can expect a comparable tactile experience when pressing down on the keys, thereby creating a bridge between the two models despite their differing top materials.
Ultimately, the interaction between the top and bottom housings is essential in shaping the overall auditory and tactile experiences of each switch. While the TTC Brother's polycarbonate top enhances clarity and resonance during release, the Hibiscus's nylon top offers a softer and more muted character. Nevertheless, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that the deeper sound characteristics are common in both designs. Therefore, if you're looking for a balance of both crispness and depth, you will achieve similar results in terms of feel and sound production at the bottom-out point, while the experience during the release will reflect the unique qualities of their respective top housings.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Brother switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Hibiscus requires a heavier 42 grams to achieve the same keystroke. This means that the Brother switch may be more suitable for users seeking a lighter typing experience, potentially allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, the Hibiscus switch has a defined bottom out force of 48 grams, indicating a firmer feel as you press down all the way, which might appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Unfortunately, the bottom out force for the Brother switch is unavailable, making it difficult to compare directly in that aspect. Overall, users looking for a lighter typing experience would favor the TTC Brother switch, while those who enjoy a more weighted feedback might opt for the HMX Hibiscus linear switch.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Brother clicky switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch feature the same travel distance of 3.5 mm, making them comparable in terms of key press experience. With both switches requiring the same amount of downward travel, users can expect a similar feel when typing or gaming, ensuring consistent responsiveness across both types. Therefore, whether one prefers the tactile feedback of the Brother or the smoothness of the Hibiscus, the travel distance will not impact the overall performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch delivers a distinctly crunchy audio profile that is characteristic of high-quality clicky switches. Each keystroke resonates with a clear and crisp precision, akin to the sound of stepping on crunchy autumn leaves. This satisfying auditory feedback is a major draw for enthusiasts who enjoy the tactile confirmation of their actions. On the other hand, the HMX Hibiscus linear switch offers a clacky, poppy sound, which provides a different auditory experience. While the specifics of the Hibiscus's sound are less detailed, its linear nature typically allows for a smoother, quieter operation compared to the sharp click of the Brother switch. Ultimately, both switches present unique sound signatures that cater to different preferences, whether one is drawn to the articulate crunch of a clicky switch or the smoothness of a linear one.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother switch features an easy-to-press action with a light actuation force of just 37g, which makes it enjoyable for extended typing sessions. The tactile feedback it provides is stepped, allowing users to experience a clear distinction between pre-travel and post-travel, enhancing overall typing dynamics. This gentle yet distinguishable feedback strikes a balance, making it accessible for both casual and professional typists. Conversely, the feel of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch is marked by its ultra-light actuation, which is noted to surpass 80% of all switches, effectively creating a seamless and smooth typing experience. While the specifics about its tactile feedback and characteristics are not provided, linear switches generally promote an uninterrupted downward motion without the tactile bumps, making them a popular choice for those who prefer a fluid keystroke.
In conclusion, while the TTC Brother clicky switch and HMX Hibiscus linear switch cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel, they both offer compelling experiences suited to various typing styles. The Brother excels with its crunchy sound and distinct tactile feedback, making it ideal for those who enjoy auditory and tactile engagement. On the other hand, the Hibiscus’s smooth and light action provides an effortless typing experience favored by those who prioritize speed and fluidity. Depending on your personal preferences, both switches can lead to satisfying results, whether you lean towards the articulate clickiness of the Brother or the serene smoothness of the Hibiscus.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to opt for the TTC Brother clicky switch or the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, your choice depends largely on the typing experience you seek. If you prefer a switch that offers an engaging tactile feedback with an audible crunch, perfect for those who enjoy the distinct sound and feel of clicky keyboards, the Brother is your go-to option. Its lightweight actuation of just 37 grams combined with an easy-to-press design means you can type comfortably for longer periods without straining your fingers. This makes it an excellent choice for typists who value not just the sound but also the joy of tactile interaction as they type. Conversely, if you are drawn to a smoother, quieter typing experience that prioritizes speed and fluidity, the HMX Hibiscus linear switch would be ideal. With a bottom-out force of 48 grams, it delivers a refined feel that allows for rapid typing without any tactile bumps disrupting your rhythm. This switch is perfect for gamers or fast typists who require precision and a bit of silence during their sessions. Overall, both switches have their unique merits, allowing you to choose based on whether you prefer the clicky excitement of the Brother or the smooth, steady flow of the Hibiscus.
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